Panglao Island

Panglao is the Philippines' premier beach and diving destination, offering world-class marine sanctuaries like Balicasag Island just 8 km offshore. The island concentrates tourist facilities around Alona Beach, where you'll find everything from luxury resorts to backpacker dorms from ₱350, plus abundant tricycles and habal-habal for getting around. Compared to busy Cebu resorts, Panglao delivers comparable beaches with a more laid-back island atmosphere.

Panglao is accessed via Tagbilaran City on Bohol Island, connected by bridge to Dauis on Panglao. Tagbilaran has a ferry terminal with routes from Cebu and other islands. Panglao also has its own international airport (Bohol–Panglao International Airport) capable of handling large aircraft and charter flights, making it increasingly accessible for direct arrivals.

Two main roads serve the island: the Circumferential Road circling near the coast and the Dauis-Panglao Road running lengthwise through the center. Tricycles and habal-habal (motorcycle taxis) cost ₱20-50 per ride, with tricycles preferred for luggage and comfort. Jeepneys cruise the island frequently with rides from ₱15, the cheapest option.

Peak seasons like Christmas and Easter make accommodation very difficult to find without advance booking. The island operates year-round with diving available in all seasons, though weather patterns follow typical Philippine patterns with wetter months from June to October.

Accommodation spans the island, from luxury beach resorts to budget dorms. Alona Beach has the highest concentration, offering dorm beds from ₱350 up to resort suites. Outside Alona, options thin out but include quieter beach areas like Danao Beach and Bolod. Book ahead during Christmas and Easter holidays.

Cheap Filipino meals are found at candelaria (plain local eateries) in the towns, offering filling and often good food at low prices. Alona Beach has dozens of tourist-oriented restaurants serving international cuisine at mid-to-high prices, plus chain options like McDonald's and Dunkin Donuts. Most restaurants serve alcohol, and many Alona establishments are bar-restaurants with live music in evenings.

Scuba diving is the standout activity, with Balicasag Island marine sanctuary 10 km from Alona Beach as the most famous site, plus Doljo, Pamalican Island, and Napaling. Beach massages cost ₱350 for an hour Swedish massage. Daily yoga classes run at studios around the island. Virgin Island and Pamilacan Island offer nearby island-hopping destinations.

Panglao is heavily touristed with generally honest locals, but common tourist scams found anywhere in Asia can occur. Take standard precautions against pickpockets as you would in any tourist destination. The area is considered safe overall for travelers.

Tourist areas like Alona Beach have good mobile coverage and WiFi available at most resorts and restaurants. International roaming and local SIM cards are available through Philippine carriers.

Bohol Island is immediately accessible via bridge, with Tagbilaran City as the gateway. Must-see Bohol attractions include tarsiers near Corella and the Chocolate Hills, available as tours from Tagbilaran or through Panglao hotels. Quieter beach options include Anda on Bohol's east coast. Ferries from Tagbilaran go to Camiguin (from Jagna), Siquijor, Metro Cebu, and Dumaguete. Ubay on eastern Bohol has ferries to Maasin on Leyte.